Undergrad What is the most efficient radiator shape?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on identifying the most efficient shape for an electromagnetic radiator, specifically one that emits infrared radiation at approximately 250 Kelvin. The original poster (OP) clarifies that they are referring to a radiator that exchanges heat solely through thermal radiation, similar to spacecraft radiators, but without weight and portability constraints. Ultimately, the OP concludes that a flat, thin plane is the most mathematically efficient shape for such a radiator, resolving the inquiry.

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Christofer Br
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What is the highest efficiency (electromagnetic) radiator shape? Meaning, a shape with the highest radiated power/volume (radiated power is in this case dependent only on surface area and how much of the radiation is reabsorbed by the radiatior)
 
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Do you mean antenna design? It depends on frequency.
 
anorlunda said:
Do you mean antenna design? It depends on frequency.
No, I mean an engine radiator, emitting infrared at about 250 Kelvin
 
Christofer Br said:
What is the highest efficiency (electromagnetic) radiator shape?
Christofer Br said:
No, I mean an engine radiator, emitting infrared at about 250 Kelvin
That makes no sense to me.

Please help us to help you.

Do you mean like the radiator in the front of your car? Or radiators on spacecraft to shed excess heat? Please don't keep us guessing. Can you use Google Images to find an image of the kinds of "radiators" that you are asking about?
 
berkeman said:
That makes no sense to me.

Please help us to help you.

Do you mean like the radiator in the front of your car? Or radiators on spacecraft to shed excess heat? Please don't keep us guessing. Can you use Google Images to find an image of the kinds of "radiators" that you are asking about?
I'm talking about a radiator that exchanges heat only by thermal radiation - no convection or heat conduction *out* from it. Somewhat similar to a spacecraft radiator, but without constraints on weight and portability. I should also add that a single flat surface is not what I am after, even though it's probably the most radiative per volume.
 
Nevermind, actually a flat, as thin as possible plane could work, and it's indeed mathematically the most efficient shape for a radiator! neat, sorry for the confusion guys :)
 
It appears that the OP answered his own question. There is nothing more to add. Thread locked.
 
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